BELFAST’S Michael Conlan has promised to make a huge statement when he takes on former world champion TJ Doheny in an outdoor clash – in front of supporters - at Falls Park on August 6.
In a crossroads fight for both men, and the biggest all-Irish showdown in decades, former world amateur champion and Olympic medalist Conlan will take on Doheny in front of fans as part of the famous Féile an Phobail.
Victory for Conlan, who boasts an unblemished professional record of 15-0 since turning over five years ago, would move him closer to a coveted world title shot while it is a chance for Doheny to re-establish himself on the world scene too.
The Portlaloise native beat Ryosuke Iwasa in Japan to become IBF world super-bantamweight champion in 2018 but, after losing his title to Daniel Roman, has since suffered an upset defeat to Ionut Baluta – the Spanish-based Romanian who Conlan beat on points back in April.
And the Belfast man is determined to pick up another win in front of his own fans.
“I am delighted that I will be returning to the Falls Park to fight in front of fans as part of Féile an Phobail. August 6th will show that Belfast is back,” said the 29-year-old.
“It’s an honour to share the ring with TJ Doheny. I have a lot of respect for him and his achievements being a former world champion. I believe it’s my toughest fight to date and with that I will make my biggest statement in my quest to become world champion.
“This is home turf for me and the last time was absolutely huge and probably the best atmosphere I have ever experienced in my entire boxing career.
“I am West Belfast and Falls Road born and bred so this means everything to me. Féile an Phobail and Top Rank have delivered again big time. I want to give the people of Belfast and Ireland a night to remember forever on Friday, August 6.
“This is going to be epic.”
Thirty-four-year-old Doheny is also excited to get back in the ring for the first time since March 2020.
“I am really happy to be back in action after being out of the ring for over a year,” he said.
“This will be my first time fighting on Irish soil and what a way to make a homecoming. It doesn’t get much bigger than this for an all-Irish clash and the fans are in for a real treat.
“This is the kind of fight that I have been craving since my split decision loss to Danny Roman in a world title unification. High level opposition is what motivates me and helps me raise my game and I cannot wait for this.”
Kevin Gamble, Féile an Phobail Director, added: “Michael Conlan is a local hero from Cavendish Street on the Falls Road here in west Belfast.
“He is an inspiration to so many young people, showing what dedication and commitment and hard work can achieve.”
Top Rank founder Bob Arum, who has helped guide Conlan’s career since 2016, said he expected a “fight for the ages”.
Tickets will go on sale at 10am tomorrow from Ticketmaster.ie.
